Rivers United’s title hopes took a hit as they were held to a 2-2 draw at home by Bendel Insurance in matchday 21 of the 2024/25 Nigeria Premier Football League, extending their winless run to four league matches.

The result drops the ‘Pride of Rivers’ to third place with 35 points from 21 games, now trailing league leaders Remo Stars by seven points.

Enyimba also faltered, managing only a 1-1 draw against Heartland in the ‘Oriental Derby.’ The reigning champions sit eighth on the table with 28 points from 20 matches.

Elsewhere, Niger Tornadoes moved up to seventh after a 2-1 home victory over Kwara United, with midfielder Ifeanyi Okechukwu scoring inside the first minute.

Katsina United secured a dramatic stoppage-time penalty to edge Plateau United, a crucial win that lifts them five points clear of the relegation zone.

Meanwhile, Shooting Stars forward Sodiq Ibrahim celebrated his first goal for the club in their 2-0 triumph over Nasarawa United. The former Sunshine Stars attacker, who joined during the mid-season window, expressed gratitude to the coaching staff for the opportunity to prove himself.

“My debut goal for Shooting Stars is a huge boost for me and a way to show my gratitude to ‘The Oracle,’ coach Gbenga Ogunbote, for believing in me,” Ibrahim told Shooting Stars media.

“I’m thrilled with the goal and want to thank my coaches, teammates, and the fans for making this day happen for me.

 

“While I was on the bench, I kept reminding myself to seize the moment if I was called upon, and thankful to God, I did.

“This is a significant step for me, and I hope to continue scoring and contributing to the club’s overall success.”

 

ALL NPFL WEEK 21 RESULTS

Katsina United 1-0 Plateau United

Niger Tornadoes 2-1 Kwara United

Rivers United 2-2 Bendel Insurance

Enyimba 1-1 Heartland

Shooting Stars 2-0 Nasarawa United

Akwa United 1-1 Lobi Stars

Ikorodu City 4-1 Kano Pillars

Remo Stars 3-2 Abia Warriors

Bayelsa United 4-1 Sunshine Stars

El Kanemi 2-1 Rangers International